I’ve always known about Mi Tierra, but until I went with Bill back in 2013 I’d never managed to get anyone to go with me. It was everything I’d hoped it would be and more, so it immediately moved to my list of favorites – and since it’s open 24 hours I should always be able to find a way to squeeze it in.

Brunch

Sunday morning Deb and I packed up our belongings, checked out of Hotel Contessa and toted our belongings to the car, but we decided to walk to Market Square. It seemed as if every time we left the Contessa we either headed north or east. We’d been neglecting the west, something we were ready to correct.

Market Square is one of the oldest parts of town and during its long history it’s always been an area of mercantile. The actual old El Mercado isn’t what it used to be. It probably deserves the “tourist trap” slam many folks have given it on sites like Trip Advisor, but don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater – especially if that baby is Mi Tierra.

My previous visit to Mi Tierra had been during a freak winter storm that blitzed out about half of what I wanted to do. We made a mid-week visit for lunch and then headed over to the McNay. The crowd was primarily business people grabbing a quick lunch and a few of us tourists who had braved the cold. There had been no wait for a table.

Things were a little more lively on this Sunday morning. The bakery counter was busy and you had to wait for a table. Deb and I settled in the bar and watched for our buzzer to go off. Remarkably we only had a few minutes of cooling our heels, so I think they opened up the patio.

Once seated, we made selections from the breakfast menu and sat back to enjoy the show. Mariachis entertained us on the patio and just outside vendors were setting up booths from which to sell their trinkets. The food was delivered fresh and delicious. It was a little early for a margarita, but I couldn’t help wishing I had one.

Back to the Car

When we headed back to the car I spotted that one of my favorite shops was open. I never can remember the name of it, but you can’t miss it. It’s right next door to Mi Tierra. They have clothing and jewelry on the first and second floor and wonderful ceramics in the basement. Maybe next time I’ll actually write down the name. I’d love to be able to afford some of their beautiful embroidered dresses on the second floor, but I’m not paying three figures for a sundress.

Main Plaza

Along the way back to the car, we enjoyed the beautiful Main Plaza, but we agreed that the western part of downtown couldn’t compare with the eastern side. It won’t be my last trip to Market Square or Mi Tierra, but I won’t walk next time. I’ll either grab the trolley or hop in my car.

Next we’ll head out on the Mission Trail, so come back next week. You’ll love it.